12/31/2025
PEPPER JELLY CREAM CHEESE BITES 🌶️🧀✨
Sweet + spicy pepper jelly over creamy cheese in flaky little cups… these are the first thing to disappear at parties!
⏱ Prep: 15 min | 🔥 Bake: 10–12 min
🍽 Makes: 12 bites
INGREDIENTS
1 package phyllo shells (12 count) or 1 sheet puff pastry / crescent dough (see note)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup pepper jelly (red pepper jelly works great)
1 tsp lemon juice (optional, brightens flavor)
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Optional add-ins:
1/4 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp shredded cheddar (for a “cheesy” version)
INSTRUCTIONS (PHYLLO SHELL VERSION – like the photo)
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
Stir cream cheese with lemon juice (and garlic powder if using) until smooth.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon cream cheese into each shell.
Bake 8–10 minutes until warmed through and shells are crisp.
Spoon 1–2 teaspoons pepper jelly on top.
Garnish with parsley and serve warm (or room temp).
OPTION: MAKE YOUR OWN CUPS (PUFF PASTRY / CRESCENT)
Cut dough into squares and press into a greased mini muffin tin.
Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden.
Fill with cream cheese + top with pepper jelly.
✅ Tip: Warm the pepper jelly for 8–10 seconds so it spoons on beautifully.
Do you like pepper jelly “mild”… or “spicy”? 👇🔥